St Modwen Properties : BILLINGHAM TOWN CENTRE SEES INCREASE IN FOOTFALL

18th January 2016

The number of people visiting Billingham Town Centre has increased over the past 6 months, according to new research figures (June '15 to Dec '15). The Town Centre has experienced a 27 per cent rise in overall footfall, with much stronger Saturday footfall. St. Modwen, the UK's leading regeneration specialist, acquired the town centre at the end of 2014 and is undertaking work to revitalise the centre.

A number of businesses in the town centre have reported positive trading over the Christmas period, with national retailers such as B&M and Select Fashions enjoying strong sales. La Porto Italiano, an Italian restaurant run by local businessman, Adil Iletmis, is another of the Town Centre's success stories. The popular restaurant was fully booked throughout Christmas and New Year, thanks to its reputation for great atmosphere and excellent Italian cuisine.

Adil Iletmis, Owner of at La Porto Italiano, said: 'The restaurant is growing from strength to strength, with people coming from across the county and beyond to sample our food. Our location, free parking across the centre and, of course, our great food, have all contributed to the success of La Porto Italiano. We are pleased to be part of the ongoing development of a vibrant and successful new Billingham Town Centre.'

Sarah Jenkinson, Store Manager at Select Fashion, said: 'Our store has traded really well since we opened last summer. It's great to be involved in the ongoing regeneration works and we are thrilled to be back in Billingham and serving our loyal local customer base once again.'

Rob Richardson, Asset and Development Manager at St. Modwen, said: 'When we acquired Billingham Town Centre one of our aims was to bring people back to the town. The latest footfall figures are therefore very encouraging. We continue to invest in the Centre and are committed to a rolling programme of improvements to create a vibrant and convenient place to shop, relax and live.'

'We also remain focused on supporting existing businesses, such as La Porto Italiano, to enable them to strengthen and grow as well as attracting new retailers to the centre.'

St. Modwen has recently secured the long term future of Greggs to the Town Centre. The bakery has signed a new 10 year lease, demonstrating its commitment to Billingham Town Centre.

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